Rafa Benitez has insisted it is "business as usual" at Newcastle United with Mike Ashley's comments about a club sale not followed up with any news of a buyer.

Speaking ahead of the clash with Wolves, Benitez said: "I was talking with Lee and it is the same message - business as usual.

When asked about the fans, Benitez said: "This group of players deserve credit because they are doing a great job.

Benitez is braced for a tough test against Wolves, and added: “Wolves are a very good team - they have had the same manager for a while and have been playing the same way."

The Toon boss has been left to prepare for the game with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday and has not held any discussions with Ashley, instead communicating through managing director Lee Charnley.

Benitez was also asked about the abandoned boycott for Sunday's game as the Magpie Group decided to call off their protest, believing that any unrest would send out the wrong message to a potential new owner.